Agriculture & Environment New Mexico (NM) Rank #28 of 50

Agricultural Scientist Salary in New Mexico

The median agricultural scientist salary in New Mexico is $68,969 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $74,160.

Median Salary
$68,969
vs National
$-5,191
State Rank
#28 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Agricultural Scientist Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for agricultural scientist compensation. Agricultural Scientist salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $68,969 per year, agricultural scientists in New Mexico earn $5,191 less than the national median of $74,160.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $68,969 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $74,160 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: agricultural scientists at the 10th percentile earn $40,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $113,460 — a $72,540 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Mexico for this role is Santa Fe, where the median reaches $81,576.

Nationally, agricultural scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for agricultural scientists across the country.

Agricultural Scientist Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level agricultural scientist earns around $44,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $106,950 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$44,640
$-3,360 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$70,680
$-5,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$106,950
$-8,050 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $68,969 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $40,920
25th Percentile $52,080
Median (50th) $68,969
75th Percentile $91,140
90th Percentile $113,460

Agricultural Scientist Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for agricultural scientists in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Agricultural Scientist in New Mexico

Education

Most agricultural scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. New Mexico has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

AgronomyResearch MethodsData AnalysisSoil ScienceGeneticsScientific Writing

Job Outlook in New Mexico

Nationally, agricultural scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). New Mexico's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Agricultural Scientists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $37,981 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Agricultural Scientist Roles in New Mexico?

Get matched with recruiters hiring agricultural scientists in New Mexico at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Agricultural Scientist Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Agricultural Scientist make in New Mexico? ▼
The median agricultural scientist salary in New Mexico is $68,969 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $74,160. Salaries range from $40,920 (10th percentile) to $113,460 (90th percentile).
How much does a Agricultural Scientist make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $68,969, a agricultural scientist in New Mexico earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for agricultural scientists? ▼
New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for agricultural scientist pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level agricultural scientists earn $44,640, while senior professionals earn $106,950.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for agricultural scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for agricultural scientists is Hawaii at $126,072. New Mexico's median of $68,969 ranks #28 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Idaho ($69,710) and Georgia ($68,969).
What is the entry-level agricultural scientist salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level agricultural scientist in New Mexico earns approximately $44,640 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $70,680. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $106,950.
What city in New Mexico pays agricultural scientists the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for agricultural scientists, with a median salary of $81,576. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.